Cave & Basin Historic Site in Banff National Park

Found in Alberta's Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park's Cave and Basin historic site commemorates the birthplace of Canada's National Parks system which began in 1885. The area features natural thermal mineral springs, including one located inside a cavern which has been incorporated into the structure. The once popular swimming pool (seen on numerous vintage postcards) has since been removed, but a tile outline shows where it once was.

It was in 1981 that the Cave and Basin became designated a National Historic Site of Canada. There are several placards commemorating the history of the area, and although it's not a large place to explore, it is a beautiful spot to spend an hour.

Cave & Basin in 1915.

Cave & Basin in the 1920s.

Art Print: Sky Ranch Motel

"Sky Ranch Motel" is another digital composite and art print from the Surreal Alberta series. Once again, this modified scene was inspired by travel shoots in Banff National Park.

 

Art Print: Banff Space Port 1955

"Banff Space Port 1955" is the latest digital composite and art print from the "Surreal Alberta" series. This print was inspired by vintage travel imagery of Banff Avenue in Banff, Alberta.

 

A Misfit Christmas in Banff National Park

There's just something so magical about Banff at this time of year. The winter scenes here are so dramatic ... not to mention the child dentists and glowing reindeer ... Merry Christmas!

 

Winter Evening at the Banff Springs Hotel

Looking like a giant gingerbread castle in the Alberta Rockies, the Banff Springs Hotel in Banff National Park looks as incredible as ever on a winter's night in the lead up to Christmas.

 

Banff National Park in Alberta

From the Banff Park Museum to the Cave and Basin to Lake Louise and the Banff Springs Hotel, there are numerous attractions and natural wonders that make Banff National Park in Alberta one of Canada's most popular destinations. These are just a few visual highlights from the Around Alberta series featuring landmarks within Banff National Park.